The Tradition of Giving and Sending Flowers in Estonia
While giving flowers is a common occurrence, the reasons vary in different countries. Lets take a look what is wise to remember from Estonian flower etiquette.
Now that late autumn is here and the nature sleeps northern hemisphere, it reminded us of the powerful gift of giving flowers to brighten someone’s day. But which flowers to choose for which occasion? Do roses have a different meaning in Estonia versus, say, Italy?
In Estonia any occasion worth the name is appropriate for flower gifts. Flowers are gifted at birthdays, weddings and anniversaries, funerals, as well as the popular occasions and festivals like Women’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day etc. Flowers are also popular as gifts even on formal occasions like Graduation Day, Retirement Day, etc., and even as casual gifts between friends, neighbors and colleagues as corporate gifts. In Estonia flowers are the most popular of all the gifts for any occasion. Giving or sending the fresh bouquet of flowers you can’t go wrong.
Odd vs Equal Number of Flowers
The number of flowers you give have significance. A single flower is given in romantic situations (before or after a dinner date).
In Estonian flower tradition, it is customary to give an odd number of flowers. Especially roses: you could give roses by themselves, but also in a mixed flower bouquet.
In Estonia if you give someone a single rose, it is saying that you are in love with that person. Better in that case is to choose a red or pink flower. A bunch of red roses represents an expression of passionate love, but also a strong desire. In some cases red roses have a less romantic association: on your 20th birthday, there is a chance that you will get 20 roses.
Equal number of flowers is associated with funerals.
The Meaning Behind Flower Colors
A bunch of pink roses is the symbol of youth and expresses a love that is newborn. Pink flowers are associated with a happy event like a wedding and also represent admiration.
In Estonia, white and light-colored flowers are usually presented on birth, engagement and marriage and to young women. White chrysanthemums, calla-lilies and carnations are common funeral flowers. Yellow and orange flowers signify joy of life, blue means freedom, and pink conveys sweeter emotions or intimacy.
Gift of Flowers
Flowers are obviously best received when they’re least expected. And yes, they’re somewhat expected on special occasions, like birthdays and anniversaries. That doesn’t mean, however, that the gesture becomes any less-special. As life becomes more intricate and complicated, with relationships deteriorating due to a lack of communication, or rather, face-to-face communication. We can only hope that the flower-giving tradition remains.
If you need any help or flower advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Joanna and Mirjam from Studio Nelk